Thursday 4 July 2019

Manganese Alloys: Properties & Uses

Over the years, the iron and steel industry has become one of the most important industries. Steel and alloys are extensively used in a wide range of products that we use in our everyday lives. From tools to household appliances, house constructions to vehicles, we find ferro alloys in most things we use and see around us. More than 90% of the manganese production across the globe, goes into producing steel.

Manganese Alloys: Properties & Uses


There are a variety of manganese products that are used in the steel manufacturing process to give it different properties relevant to its many applications:

Ferro manganese

It is a commonly used alloy produced by reducing manganese ore in the presence of carbon. It helps to improve mechanical properties such as harden-ability and abrasion resistance of steel.

Silico manganese

It is made by mixing silicon with manganese. This alloy gives steel increased strength and function, while also improving its aesthetic appeal. This helps produce fine steel with a high grade of purity. The two main grades that are produced are:


  • Refined silicon manganese
  • Super refined silicon manganese

By combining silicon manganese with other substances, various alloys can be produced. Standard silicon manganese steel alloys contain 14-16% silicon and around 68% manganese. In stainless steel, the silicon component is around 30%.

Role of Manufacturers

The quality of manganese alloys manufactured depends to a large extent on the manufacturers. Reliable manufacturers such as Maithan Alloys ensure precise composition, high purity and rigidity, thereby assuring that their customers get the best quality product which conforms to industry standards.

Thus, Ferro Alloys Silicon Manganese is the largest produced ferro alloy. It is essential for the manufacturing of iron and steel due to its property of sulphur fixing, de-oxidising and good alloying. It not only boosts tensile strength and harden-ability, it also reduces ductility.